NEWS RELEASE - SEPTEMBER 6, 2011
EXPANDED LONG TERM CARE FACILITY FOR TISDALE

Nursing home residents in the Tisdale area are one step closer to the comfort and increased safety of an expanded and renovated long-term care facility. A sod turning ceremony took place today at the construction site adjacent to Newmarket Manor and Tisdale Hospital.

"Seniors and others needing long-term care will have more privacy when construction is completed, but more importantly, it will be a safer, more comfortable work and living environment for the residents and the staff," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "We are putting patients first by replacing 13 outdated health facilities across the province."

The $18.4 million project will expand and renovate Newmarket Manor. This will replace Sasko Park Lodge, which was built in 1958.

"Never underestimate what can be accomplished when we work together," Carrot River Valley MLA Fred Bradshaw said. "In just a few years, we will see the end result of years of planning for improved long-term care accommodations for the Tisdale area."

"It is truly fitting that the sod turning for this project takes place during harvest," Kelsey Trail Health Region Board Chair Wilfred Veller said. "Just as farmers are now reaping the rewards of their hard work, those involved in the planning for this new facility are now beginning to see their time and dedicated commitment pay off. We are proud to be part of a project that will have such a significant impact on the lives of the seniors in Tisdale and surrounding area for years to come."

In February, the provincial government reduced the local funding share for health facility projects from 35 per cent to 20 per cent, in recognition of revenue constraints that local municipalities face.

"People from the Tisdale area can rest assured that the seniors and others who are in need of care will have an improved environment when the new building is completed," Tisdale Mayor Rolly Zimmer said.


For more information, contact:

Tyler McMurchy Health Regina Phone: 306-787-4083

Peggy Ratcliffe Kelsey Trail Health Region Tisdale Phone: 306-873-6613